A BISHOP from Cebu has passed away earlier today, November 26.
Talibon, Bohol Bishop Emeritus Christian Vicente Noel passed away at the Perpetual Succour Hospital at 2:44 a.m., during the feast of Christ the King. He just turned 80 last November 17.
Noel died due to complications attributed to diabetes and prostate cancer.
Fr. Rosdel Noel, the late bishop's nephew, told SunStar Cebu that Noel was admitted days after Cebu Archbishop Emeritus Ricardo Cardinal Vidal died.
He stayed at the hospital's Intensive Care Unit for a month before succumbing to his ailments.
Noel hails from Asturias, Cebu and is the second of eight children.
He was ordained priest by the late Cebu Archbishop Julio Cardinal Rosales on March 19, 1961.
Two decades later, he was elevated as Auxiliary Bishop of Cagayan de Oro.
Six years later, he was elevated as the first bishop of the newly-created Diocese of Talibon in Bohol where he had served there for 27 years.
In 2014, Noel retired as bishop of Talibon. He was replaced by Bishop Patrick Daniel Parcon.
Due to health reasons, Noel decided to live at the Pope John Paul II Home for Ailing Priests until his death.
Msgr. Joseph Tan, Cebu Archdiocesan spokesperson, said a wake will be organized at the Archbishop's residence starting tonight until November 29.
On November 30, Noel's mortal remains will be brought to the Diocese of Talibon.
Tan said they have yet to discuss the funeral arrangements for Noel. (SunStar Philippines/Superbalita Cebu)